The Triangle’s 2016 Outdoor Music Guide: A season of uncertainty

Right now is a strange and uncertain time to be doing a music preview. It’s the beginning of outdoor-music season, the busiest time of the year for live music. And there’s plenty on the Triangle’s schedule, from Carter-Finley Stadium and Walnut Creek Amphitheater on down.

But the burning question: How much of this will actually happen?

There’s no telling because of ongoing fallout from House Bill 2, the “Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act.” It became law last month, removing anti-discrimination protections for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people – and triggering a story of controversy.

Bruce Springsteen was the first to pull out, canceling his April 10 Greensboro show in solidarity with those battling the new law, followed by Ringo Starr, Ani DiFranco, Boston and Pearl Jam. The cancellations have made worldwide news and started a continuing conversation about boycotts.

It’s not clear who else might refuse to play in North Carolina over House Bill 2. So with even more caveats than usual about the possibility of schedule changes, here is this year’s lineup.